Toronto’s Best Chili
Chris McDonald, executive chef of Cava, Toronto’s Spanish food mecca, warms up with the city’s best bowls
Category: Restaurants
Woodlot lives up to the hype
Woodlot has kept some of its previous life’s bar feel but is still warm and cozy with rustic wood floor and tables as well as a big wood-burning oven that dominates the kitchen. Our table is on the second floor with a great view of the kitchen brigade headed by chef and co-owner David Haman (ex–Luce, Lucien).
Dynasty opens up shop in new location
Dynasty Chinese Cuisine in Yorkville has closed the doors on their old Colonnade location at 131 Bloor St. W. But dim sum devotees needn’t worry as the new shop just down the street is already open at 69 Yorkville Ave., the former location of True Restaurant, among others.
Test results for two of T.O.'s top pastas
Cold weather often makes us reach for comfort foods — especially bowls full of pasta: we tested two of T.O.’s favourite al dente dishes … and, yes, the results were less than warming
New in the Neighbourhood: Copper Chimney
A server can make or break your impression of a restaurant. And I will be the first to admit that, if the food at Copper Chimney had missed the mark, I’d still probably go back — just to be the recipient of our waiter’s winning smile and overall optimism.
New casual Italian eatery lands on Mt. Pleasant
After a stint managing Joe Maggiano’s Italian Steakhouse and Bar — and many stints before that in the kitchens of various Toronto establishments — Nick Nada has opened up his own restaurant in North Toronto.
The Baron of Bagels brings the goodness to Midtown
Thirty-one years ago Kiva’s Bakery, a GTA landmark, opened in Thornhill and 14-year-old Ben Rafael was there, working as a busboy. Eventually he and his two younger brothers, Elan and Steve, took over ownership. Now they’re branching out with the newly opened Kiva’s Bagel Bar, a makeyour- own sandwich-and-salad joint.
Acclaimed T.O. chef leads double life as musician
Guy Rubino is a three-ring circus unto himself. Ring one: chef and co-owner of Ame and Ushi Oni restaurants (formerly his celebrity eatery Rain). Ring two: vocals and guitar for local rock band BMD. Ring three: the man is shooting a pilot episode for a reality TV series.
Böhmer's beautiful Ossington bistro is lacking
With substantially more seats than his neighbours, Paul Boehmer will need to attract diners from across the city who are willing to make his restaurant a destination. And with a reputation built on numerous stints in the city’s best kitchens, you’d think I was in for something special … not so much.
New Italian bistro for former Eglinton Ave. restaurateur
Even an ulcer couldn’t keep Michael Pagliaro, former co-owner of Il Mulino on Eglinton Avenue West, away from the restaurant business. Diagnosed while on a winetasting tour in Italy, Pagliaro initially decided it was time to put an end to his 45-year restaurant career.
Unleash your inner hillbilly at the Drake BBQ
The Drake BBQ broadcasts its hillbilly presence to the street. When you walk into this rustic joint, the smell of barbecue provokes one’s hunger. I was greeted by Chef Anthony Rose and he arranged for me to taste everything on their limited menu.
Traditional recipe takes title at 'Latkepalooza'
Last Saturday’s Latkepalooza was the second showdown in a series of cooking competitions at Caplansky’s. The competition may be known as the Battle of the Bubbies, but that didn’t discourage the 28-year-old who claimed first place. The only requirement for contestants wanting to enter the competition was that they pile up four dozen potato pancakes and arrive at the College Street deli by 9 p.m.